Spring Break on a Tank: Gold Panning

We all know about the California Gold Rush and how important it is to our state’s history, but did you ever want to discover more?

About 45 miles away from Downtown Sacramento is the place where the the rush all began and changed the history of California. At the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma, you will learn all about how James Marshall first saw shimmers of the precious metal in the American River while he was building his sawmill for him and John Sutter.

While the original sawmill no longer exist, the state park has built a full size replica of the original sawmill and gives guests the experience of seeing a piece of California history.

At the park, visitors have the opportunity to try panning for gold in the river just like miners did back in the mid 1800's. Whether that be on your own or through lessons, the park is giving you the chance to find some gold of your own!

Though there is more to the park than just the gold. After going panning for the valuable metal, you can take a tour to see how life was like during the Gold Rush. With a working blacksmith shop, old schoolhouse, mining cabins and general store, guests will get a memorable glimpse back in time!

When you are there, it is highly recommended to see the museum that has Native American and Gold Rush- era exhibits including household tools, mining equipment, horse-drawn carriages and other mementos.

If you decide to head up to the park this weekend, you will even get a chance to take part in, "Living History Day." On every second Saturday of the month, the park tells the stories of the 1850's. There is even a chance to be involved in rope making, candle dipping, wood working and dutch oven cooking!

The Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. with the museum open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Tours of the park are $3 for adults and $2 for children.